College Costs in Clarksdale, MS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$22,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$400
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Clarksdale Overview
Population
15,005
Student Population
1,982 (13.2%)
Cost of Living Index
75.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
38/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for Clarksdale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$84,556
Total After Financial Aid
$84,556
Annual Cost
$21,139
Annual After Aid
$21,139
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $84,556 |
| Monthly Payment | $960 |
| Total Interest | $30,658 |
| Total Loan Cost | $115,214 |
Universities in Clarksdale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clarksdale State University | Public | $9,428 |
| Clarksdale Community College | Community | $4,905 |
Clarksdale has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Clarksdale vs. National Average
| Category | Clarksdale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,700 | $10,940 | -$2,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $400 | $1,050 | -$650 |
| Cost of Living Index | 75.4 | 100 | -24.599999999999994 |
Clarksdale's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Clarksdale
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,982 students
Clarksdale has a total population of 15,005, with approximately 1,982 college students (13.2% of the population). Clarksdale has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Clarksdale
$27,298
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Clarksdale earn a median starting salary of $27,298, which is -$7,702 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $84,556 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,099 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Mississippi
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